Height adjustable device with concealed lift mechanism

ABSTRACT

A height adjustable device including a counterbalance mechanism configured to be affixed adjacent to a rear portion of a vertical support member, a worksurface configured to be affixed adjacent to a front portion of the vertical support member, and a mounting member configured to slidably couple the worksurface to the counterbalance mechanism; wherein a portion of the mounting member extends through an opening defined in the vertical support member.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This patent application is a continuation of Ser. No. 16/737,456, titled“HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE DEVICE WITH CONCEALED LIFT MECHANISM,” to Swartz etal., filed on Jan. 8, 2020, which is a continuation of Ser. No.16/525,189, titled “HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE DEVICE WITH CONCEALED LIFTMECHANISM,” to Swartz et al., filed on Jul. 29, 2019, which is acontinuation of Ser. No. 15/576,490, titled “HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE DEVICEWITH CONCEALED LIFT MECHANISM,” to Swartz et al., filed on Nov. 22,2017, which is a U.S. National Stage Filing under 35 U.S.C. § 371 ofInternational Patent Application Serial No. PCT/US2016/029564, titled“HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE DEVICE WITH CONCEALED LIFT MECHANISM,” to Swartz etal., filed Apr. 27, 2016, and published on Dec. 8, 2016, as WO2016/195853 A1, which claims the benefit of priority of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 62/170,321, titled “HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE DEVICEWITH CONCEALED LIFT MECHANISM,” to Swartz et al., filed on Jun. 3, 2015;this patent application claims the benefit of priority of U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/239,028, titled “HEIGHTADJUSTABLE DEVICE WITH CONCEALED LIFT MECHANISM,” to Swartz et al.,filed on Oct. 8, 2015; this patent application claims the benefit ofpriority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/317,031, toPrince et al., titled “PORTABLE AND RECONFIGURABLE WORKSTATIONASSEMBLY,” filed on Apr. 1, 2016; the benefit of priority of each ofwhich is claimed hereby, and each of which are incorporated by referenceherein in its entirety.

FIELD

The disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for heightadjustable desks.

BACKGROUND

Height adjustable worksurfaces and workstations can be used insit-to-stand applications.

Overview

The present inventors recognized a need for a height adjustable devicehaving a counterbalance mechanism or lifting mechanism with a thin widthprofile. The thin width profile of the counterbalance mechanism canallow a substantial portion of the device to be mounted within a wall orconcealed behind a panel. Such a mounting can reduce the space requiredin a room or hallway where the height adjustable device can be used.This can be advantageous for installations of work-stations/displaymounts in areas with minimum clearances (hospital hallways, operating orpatient rooms, cruise ships, efficiency apartments, etc.). Concealingthe lift mechanism/counterbalance mechanism also can create a cleanervisual appearance by concealment of the device.

The height adjustable device can include a counterbalance mechanism(also referred to as a lift mechanism in this disclosure) and a mountingmember. The mounting member can be slidably coupled to thecounterbalance mechanism to provide for a range of positions from alowered position to a raised position. The counterbalance mechanism caninclude an energy storage member that can support the weight of itemsattached to the mounting member, for example, a worksurface and/ordisplay mount and display. The energy storage member can support theworksurface (e.g. with a computer on it) and allow a user to adjust theworksurface height with minimal effort. The counterbalance mechanism canbe positioned on the inside of a wall surface, and can be configured tobe concealed in a wall structure, such as a standard wall having a 3.5″depth or a thinner wall having a smaller depth, such as less than 3.5″.The mounting member can protrude through the wall surface, into a roomarea.

A worksurface, such as a desk or table surface, can be coupled to themounting member. The worksurface can provide space for a computer, acomputer keyboard, documents, or provide any other desk/table functions.In some example implementations, a hinge in back of the worksurface canallow the worksurface to be folded when not in use.

A display mounting assembly can be directly attached to the mountingmember or can be attached to the worksurface. The display mountingassembly can be configured to hold one or more displays and can includedisplay adjustment features. The display mounting assembly can include amounting column that can also include a second counterbalance mechanismfor providing height adjustability of the display mount.

The height adjustable device can be configured with a worksurface, witha display mount, or with both a worksurface and a display mount.

The height adjustable device can include a panel that can cover anopening in a wall formed for the placement of the counterbalancemechanism. The panel can include one or more slots. The mounting memberscan extend from the counterbalance mechanism, through the slots and canprotrude from the exterior side of the panel, into a room area. Thepanel can be removable for maintenance or adjustment of thecounterbalance mechanism, or for installation purposes.

The counterbalance mechanism can include attachment members that canattach to an inner wall structure, such as to wall studs. The attachmentmembers can be substantially perpendicular to a substantially verticalcounterbalance mechanism.

In addition, the present inventors recognized a need for aself-contained, collapsible, freestanding, mobile, double-sided,sit/stand workstation assembly. Examples of this workstation assemblycan be used as a standalone workstation, or several workstations can belinked together to form a collaborative workspace. The workstationassembly can have various sizes, single-sided, dual-sided, 1, 2, or 4independent worksurfaces.

Examples of this workstation assembly can be a piece of furniture thatcan easily be converted from a compact, self-contained, highly mobileunit to an expanded, highly functional, height adjustable work space.This concept can be scaled from having a single stowed worksurface toany number of worksurfaces, for example, two, four, six or eightworksurfaces.

Deployment of legs of an example workstation assembly can be executedany number of ways, and in examples described below, legs are deployedin a horizontally and vertically rotating manner. The workstationassembly can include built in handles to aid in the movement of theunit, which can also include casters mounted to the underside. In anexample, the workstation assembly can also include casters mounted atthe end of each leg to enable movement of the workstation assembly afterthe legs are deployed.

The workstation assembly can also include accessory channels on theleft, top, and right sides, which can be used for attachingprivacy/distraction management panels, power systems, storage, accessoryhooks, etc. In an example the accessory channels can also be used as ameans of attaching adjacent workstation assembly units together, ifdesired. In an example, the legs can be deployed prior to deploying theworksurfaces. Such a deployment can prevent improper loading of aworksurface that is unsupported by a sufficiently sized base. Asdescribed below the legs can overlap the worksurface on the left andright sides.

A workstation assembly can include a shallow depth of a liftingmechanism. This shallow depth can allow a substantial portion of thelifting mechanism to be mounted within a wall or concealed behind apanel. Such space saving/concealment reduces the space required in theroom or hallway where the workstation assembly can be used. This can bebeneficial for installations of workstation assemblies in areasrequiring minimum clearances (hospital hallways, operating or patientrooms, cruise ships, efficiency apartments, etc.). Concealing at least aportion of the lift mechanism can also create a cleaner visualappearance of the workstation assembly.

Workstation assemblies can include a wheeled base. This can allow themto be moved around and create workspace for more than one person. Thepanels of the workstation assembly can also perform as a privacy panel.

To further illustrate the HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE DEVICE WITH CONCEALED LIFTMECHANISM disclosed herein, a non-limiting list of examples is providedhere:

In Example 1, a height adjustable device can comprise a counterbalancemechanism configured to be affixed adjacent to a rear portion of avertical support member; a worksurface configured to be affixed adjacentto a front portion of the vertical support member; and a mounting memberconfigured to slidably couple the worksurface to the counterbalancemechanism, wherein a portion of the mounting member extends through anopening defined in the vertical support member.

In Example 2, the height adjustable device of Example 1 can optionallybe configured such that the vertical support member includes a firstvertical structural member and a second vertical structural member.

In Example 3, the height adjustable device of any one or any combinationof Examples 1-2 can optionally be configured such that thecounterbalance mechanism includes a first attachment member affixed tothe first vertical structural member and a second vertical structuralmember.

In Example 4, the height adjustable device of Example 3 can optionallybe configured such that the counterbalance mechanism includes a secondattachment member affixed to the first vertical structural member andthe second vertical structural member.

In Example 5, the height adjustable device of any one or any combinationof Examples 1-4 can optionally be configured to further comprise adisplay mount assembly configured to couple to the mounting member, thedisplay mount assembly configured to support at least one electronicdisplay.

In Example 6, the height adjustable device of any one or any combinationof Examples 1-5 can optionally be configured such that the worksurfaceis configured to pivot between a folded position and a working position.

In Example 7, the height adjustable device of any one or any combinationof Examples 1-6 can optionally be configured such that the verticalsupport member includes a removable panel, the removable panel definingthe opening.

In Example 8, the height adjustable device of any one or any combinationof Examples 1-7 can optionally be configured such that the verticalsupport member is configured to be included in at least a portion of awall.

In Example 9, a height adjustable device can comprise a base; a verticalsupport member configured to be coupled to the base; a first panelconfigured to be coupled to one of the base and the vertical supportmember, the first panel having a first panel surface and a second panelsurface opposing the first panel surface; a first counterbalancemechanism configured to be affixed adjacent to the second panel surface;and a first mounting member configured to be affixed adjacent to thefirst panel surface and slidably coupled to the first counterbalancemechanism.

In Example 10, the height adjustable device of Example 9 can optionallybe configured to further comprise a second panel coupled to one of thebase and the vertical support member, the second panel having a thirdpanel surface and a fourth panel surface opposing the third panelsurface, wherein the third panel surface opposes the first panelsurface; a second counterbalance mechanism configured to be locatedaffixed adjacent to the fourth panel surface; and a second mountingmember configured to be affixed adjacent to the third panel surface andslidably coupled to the second counterbalance mechanism.

In Example 11, the height adjustable device of Example 10 can optionallybe configured such that the first and second mounting members areindependently adjustable.

In Example 12, the height adjustable device of any one or anycombination of Examples 10-11 can optionally be configured to include afirst worksurface coupled to the first mounting member wherein a firstlong axis of the first panel is configured to be both generally parallelto a first user's viewing axis and generally perpendicular to a firstuser's viewing axis and including a second worksurface wherein a secondlong the second panel is configured to be both generally parallel to asecond user's viewing axis and generally perpendicular to a seconduser's viewing axis.

In Example 13, the height adjustable device of any one or anycombination of Examples 9-11 can optionally be configured to furthercomprise a worksurface coupled to the first mounting member.

In Example 14, the height adjustable device of Example 13 can optionallybe configured such that the worksurface can be positioned in a foldedposition and a working position.

In Example 15, the height adjustable device of any one or anycombination of Examples 9-14 can optionally be configured such that thefirst panel is configured to be generally perpendicular to a user'sviewing axis.

In Example 16, the height adjustable device of any one or anycombination of Examples 9-14 can optionally be configured such that thefirst panel is configured to be generally parallel to a user's viewingaxis.

In Example 17, the height adjustable device of any one or anycombination of Examples 9-16 can optionally be configured such that thefirst and second counterbalancing mechanisms are affixed to the verticalsupport member.

In Example 18, a workstation assembly can comprise a supporting member,the supporting member including at least one of a panel and a base;

a first lift mechanism coupled to the supporting member; a second liftmechanism coupled to the supporting member; a first worksurface coupledto the first lift mechanism, wherein the first lift mechanism isconfigured to raise and lower the first worksurface; and a secondworksurface coupled to the second lift mechanism, wherein the secondlift mechanism is configured to raise and lower the second worksurface.

In Example 19, the workstation assembly of Example 18 can optionally beconfigured to further comprise a third lift mechanism coupled to thesupporting member and a third worksurface coupled to the third liftmechanism, wherein the third lift mechanism is configured to raise andlower the third worksurface.

In Example 20, the workstation assembly of Example 19 can optionally beconfigured to further comprise a fourth lift mechanism coupled to thesupporting member and a fourth worksurface coupled to the fourth liftmechanism, wherein the fourth lift mechanism is configured to raise andlower the fourth worksurface.

In Example 21, a workstation assembly can comprise a supporting member,the supporting member including a panel member, the panel member havinga first exterior surface and a second exterior surface opposing thefirst exterior surface; a first lift mechanism coupled to the supportingmember and extending outwardly from the first exterior surface; a secondlift mechanism coupled to the supporting member and extending outwardlyfrom one of the first exterior surface and the second exterior surface afirst worksurface coupled to the first lift mechanism, wherein the firstlift mechanism is configured to raise and lower the first worksurface;and a second worksurface coupled to the second lift mechanism, whereinthe second lift mechanism is configured to raise and lower the secondworksurface.

In Example 22, the workstation assembly of Example 21 can optionally beconfigured to further comprise a first privacy panel configured to blockat least one of sound, light, or vision adjacent to the first worksurface.

In Example 23, the workstation assembly of Example 22 can optionally beconfigured such that the first privacy panel is moveable between aforward position and a rearward position.

In Example 24, the workstation assembly of Example 22 can optionally beconfigured such that the first privacy panel is coupled to the firstlift mechanism so that when the first worksurface is raised or lowered,the privacy panel is raised or lowered.

In Example 25, the workstation assembly of Example 24 can optionally beconfigured such that the first privacy panel includes an independentheight adjustment mechanism.

In Example 26 height adjustable device or workstation assembly of anyone or any combination of Examples 1-25 can optionally be configuredsuch that all elements, operations, or other options recited areavailable to use or select from.

These and other examples and features of the present height adjustabledevice and lift mechanisms will be set forth in part in the followingDetailed Description. This Overview is intended to provide non-limitingexamples of the present subject matter—it is not intended to provide anexclusive or exhaustive explanation. The Detailed Description below isincluded to provide further information about the present heightadjustable device and lift mechanisms.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The exemplifications set out herein illustrate exemplary examples of theinvention, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limitingthe scope of the invention in any manner.

FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a height adjustable device, inaccordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a front perspective view of a height adjustabledevice, in accordance with at least one example of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates a rear perspective view of a height adjustabledevice, in accordance with at least one example of the presentdisclosure.

FIGS. 4A-B illustrates a side view of a height adjustable device with aworksurface in upper and lower positions, in accordance with at leastone example of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 5A-B illustrates a side view of a height adjustable device withthe worksurface in working position and a folded position, in accordancewith at least one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a height adjustable devicelocated on a base with casters, in accordance with at least one exampleof the present disclosure.

FIGS. 7A-B illustrate perspective views of a workstation assembly havingmounting members/platforms/worksurfaces coupled to telescoping legs, inaccordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate views of a workstation assembly with a smallerpanel assembly located on a riser, in accordance with at least oneexample of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates perspective view of a workstation assembly with asmaller panel located on a riser, in accordance with at least oneexample of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates a workstation assembly having panels containing alift mechanism arranged around a center column, in accordance with atleast one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a workstation assembly having anelongated panel that can house multiple lift mechanisms for severalworkstations, in accordance with at least one example of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a workstation assembly havingelectrical outlets, cable management channels, and other accessoriesmounted inside or over a panel, in accordance with at least one exampleof the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates a workstation assembly with a wheeled base, inaccordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example of a workstation assembly havingconnected panels, in accordance with at least one example of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example of workstation assemblies folded to astowed position, in accordance with at least one example of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 16A illustrates a front perspective view of a workstation assemblywith a central panel and folding height adjustable worksurfaces, inaccordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16B illustrates an example of a workstation assembly havingconcealed cable management that can be used to route cables from thecentral power hub to each workstation, in accordance with at least oneexample of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17A illustrates an example of a workstation assembly having astowed configuration of a worksurface and legs, in accordance with atleast one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17B illustrates an example of a workstation assembly having anexpanded configuration of the worksurfaces, in accordance with at leastone example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 illustrates an example of a workstation assembly having analternative example of a leg stowing configuration, in accordance withat least one example of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 19A-B illustrate examples of workstation assemblies having a liftmechanism that can be external to a panel member, in accordance with atleast one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 20 illustrates an example of workstation assembly having a swingingprivacy panel that can be adjusted to either forward or rearward facingpositions, in accordance with at least one example of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 21 illustrates a workstation assembly having a height adjustableprivacy panel, in accordance with at least one example of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 22 illustrates a top view of the workstation assembly shown in FIG.21 having independently height adjustable worksurfaces and independentlyheight adjustable privacy panels, in accordance with at least oneexample of the present disclosure.

FIG. 23A illustrates a workstation assembly having a privacy panel thatcan move together with a height adjustable worksurface and can alsoinclude an independent height adjustment for the privacy panel, inaccordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 23B illustrates a side view of the workstation assembly of FIG. 23Ahaving a privacy panel that can move together with a height adjustableworksurface and can also include an independent height adjustment forthe privacy panel, in accordance with at least one example of thepresent disclosure.

The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way oflimitation, various examples discussed in the present document.

The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to theappended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which suchclaims are entitled.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a height adjustable device 10, inaccordance with at least one example of the present disclosure. FIG. 2illustrates a front perspective view of a height adjustable device 10,in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure. Theheight adjustable device 10 can include a vertical support member 11, acounterbalance mechanism 12, a worksurface 13, a first opening 14A, asecond opening 14B, a first mounting member 15A, and a second mountingmember 15B (see FIG. 2).

The vertical support member 11 can include a front portion 16A and arear portion 16B. The rear portion 16B can oppose the front portion 16A.In an example, the front and rear portions can be two opposing faces ormain surfaces of a panel or wall. The vertical support member 11 can bea portion of a wall 17. In another example, the vertical support member11 can include a panel 20, that can be coupled to or be a portion of thewall 17. In another example, the panel 20 can be part of a free standingdevice not associated with a wall 17.

In an example, a wall 17 can include an opening (not shown) such thatthe panel 20 can fit the opening and form a portion of the wall 17. Inan example, the panel 20, wall 17, or vertical support member 11, caninclude a first vertical surface 18A, and an opposing second verticalsurface 18B. In an example, a second panel 20B can include a thirdvertical surface 18C, and an opposing fourth vertical surface 18D and asdescribed below can include corresponding counterbalance mechanismsand/or worksurfaces.

The counterbalance mechanism 12 can be affixed adjacent to the rearportion 16B of the vertical support member 11. In an example, thecounterbalance mechanism 12 can be affixed adjacent to the secondvertical surface 18B or other structural members of the vertical supportmember 11. The first and second openings 14A, 14B are shown in FIG. 2and can be vertically oriented slots that can allow the first and secondmounting members 15A, 15B to extend through the vertical support member11. The portion of the first and second mounting members 15A, 15B thatextends to the rear portion 16B (FIG. 1), can be coupled to thecounterbalance mechanism 12. The portion of the first and secondmounting members 15A, 15B that extends to the front portion 16A cansupport the worksurface 13. The first and second mounting members 15A,15B can be moveable along a portion of the length of the counterbalancemechanism 12.

Although the height adjustable device 10 is shown in FIG. 2 as havingfirst and second openings 14A, 14B, and first and second mountingmembers 15A, 15A, any number of openings or mounting members can be usedwithout changing the intent of the present disclosure. In an example oneopening and one mounting member are used. In an example, more than twoopenings and more than two mounting members are used. In an example, thefirst and second mounting members 15A, 15B can be connected with astructural member or formed as one piece.

The counterbalance mechanism 12 can include an energy storage membersuch as a spring, a gas spring, or a resilient member that can provide acounteracting force 19 (FIG. 1) to any downward force 23 (FIG. 1) causedby the weight of the worksurface 13, a display mounting assembly 24, thefirst and second mounting member 15A, 15B, or any additional weightapplied to the worksurface 13, such as a computer, books, etc., or theweight of any displays attached to the display mounting assembly 24.

The counterbalance mechanism 12 can be adjustable to tailor thecounteracting force 19 to apply to various configurations that can beused, and the counteracting force 19 can also provide a force to makeraising the height adjustable device 10 easier. Any height adjustment ofthe worksurface 13 can be made with a minimal user effort. Thecounterbalance mechanism 12 can include wheels, pulleys, and tensionmembers. The tension members can be ropes, cords, chains or cables.

The counterbalance mechanism 12 can be configured with a thin widthprofile 25 (FIG. 1) such that the counterbalance mechanism 12 can belocated within a wall 17 (see also FIG. 3). The thin width profile 25can be in the range of about 1-6 inches. The thin width profile 25 canbe in the range of about 2-5 inches. The thin width profile 25 can be inthe range of about 3-4 inches. The thin width profile can be in therange of about 3.5 inches.

The counterbalance mechanism 12 can be adjustable from either side ofthe panel 20. A wall structural member (e.g. wood or metal stud) width89 can be greater than the thin width profile 25 or any combined widthof the counterbalance mechanism 12 and the width of attachment members26A, 26B that may be coupled to the counterbalance mechanism 12. In anexample, the width of the counterbalance mechanism 12 and any auxiliaryattachment structures can be narrow enough such that the counterbalancemechanism 12 can be hidden within a wall 17 or panel 20 structure.

The worksurface 13 can be coupled to or can rest against an uppersurface 27A, 27B of the mounting member 15A, 15B. The worksurface 13 canbe any size. Worksurfaces 13 that are larger can be supported by morethan one counterbalance mechanism. Height adjustable devices 10 havingmore than one counterbalance mechanism connected to a worksurface 13,and each having at least one mounting member can be synchronized toraise and lower evenly.

The display mounting assembly 24 can include a column 28, a cross member29, and one or more display mounts 30. The display mounting assembly 24can be coupled to the worksurface 13. The display mount 30 can beconfigured to retain a video display, such as a VESA mount. The displaymounting assembly 24 can include a cross member 29 that can allow morethan one display mount 30 to be used. The display mounts 30 can bemovably coupled to the cross member 29. A display (not pictured) can becoupled to the display mount 30. The column 28 can include a separateadjustable counterbalance mechanism, to allow a height adjustment of thedisplay mount 30 relative to a top of the worksurface 13. In analternative example, the display mounting assembly 24 can be coupled tothe mounting member 15A, 15B.

The first and second openings 14A, 14B can be a slot, an open track, afree space between two components, or any other type of aperture thatcan allow one or more mounting members to extend from one side of a wallor panel surface to the other side of the wall or panel surface. Thefirst and second openings 14A, 14B can extend vertically in the panel20. The first and second openings 14A, 14B can allow the mountingmembers 15A, 15B (see FIG. 1) to slide upwardly and downwardly so thatthe height of the height adjustable device 10 can be changed.

In an example, the mounting members 15A, 15B can be formed as shown witha triangular shaped configuration. In an alternative example, themounting members 15A, 15B can be rectangularly shaped, irregularlyshaped, or have curved portions. In an example, the panel 20 can includeonly a first opening 14A. In an example, the panel 20 can include morethan two slots. In an alternative example, openings, such as the firstand second openings 14A, 14B can be cut into existing wall structurematerials, such as drywall, paneling, or composite materials and thepanel 20 need not be part of the height adjustable device 10.

FIG. 3 illustrates a rear perspective view of a height adjustable device10, in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.The counterbalance mechanism 12 can be located between wall structuremembers such as between a first vertical member 31A and a secondvertical member 31B. The first and second vertical members 31A, 31B, canbe wood, composite, plastic, or metal. The first and second verticalmembers 31A, 31B can be wall structural members such as studs, orvertical structural members of a free standing unit.

The height adjustable device 10 can include attachment configurations toattach the counterbalance mechanism 12 to one or more vertical members.In another example, the counterbalance mechanism 12 can be directlyattached to a panel 20 or to non-vertical members, such as horizontalstructural members. In an example, the height adjustable device 10 caninclude first and second attachment members 26A, 26B that can be coupledto the counterbalance mechanism 12, and to the first and second verticalmembers 31A, 31B.

The first and second attachment members 26A, 26B can securely retain thecounterbalance mechanism 12 to a wall 17 that the counterbalancemechanism 12 can support the weight of the mounting members, worksurfaceand items supported by the worksurface (see FIGS. 1-2). Although thefirst and second attachment members 26A, 26B are shown as separatehorizontal members, any means of attaching the counterbalance mechanism12 to the first and second vertical members 31A, 31B can be used such asintegral brackets, clamps, bolts, screws. In an example, thecounterbalance mechanism 12 can be attached to a first vertical member31A and not necessarily centered between two wall members as shown.

FIGS. 4A-B illustrate a side view of a height adjustable device 10 witha worksurface 13 in upper and lower positions, in accordance with atleast one example of the present disclosure. The counterbalancemechanism 12 can be firmly attached to an inner wall or panel structure,while a mounting member 15 is free to slide upwardly and downwardly inthe openings 14A, 14B (see FIG. 2). The height adjustable device 10 caninclude a lower position 35, where the mounting member 15 can be locatednear a lower end 32 of the counterbalance mechanism 12. The heightadjustable device 10 can include an upper position 34, where themounting member 15 can be located near an upper end 33 of thecounterbalance mechanism 12. Movement between these positions canaccommodate for varied heights of users and also accommodate forsit/stand applications. The length of the counterbalance mechanism 12can be formed to allow a desired length of travel of a height adjustmentdimension 36 for the mounting member 15 (or worksurface 13) from thelower position 35 to the upper position 34.

FIGS. 5A-B illustrate a side view of a height adjustable device 10 withthe worksurface 13 in working position 37 (e.g. deployed) and a foldedposition 38 (e.g. stowed), in accordance with at least one example ofthe present disclosure. The mounting member 15 can be foldable,collapsible, or include removable portions. The worksurface 13 caninclude a hinged attachment 90 to a portion of the mounting member 15,such that when the mounting member 15 is folded, collapsed, or a portionremoved, the worksurface 13 can be placed in the folded position 38. Thefolded position 38 can provide space savings in congested areas, such ashallways.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a height adjustable devicelocated on a base with casters, in accordance with at least one exampleof the present disclosure. The height adjustable platform/device canalso be considered a workstation assembly 21 and can include a heightadjustment mechanism that is hidden inside a back panel assembly (orwall) as described above.

The workstation assembly 21 can include a mounting member coupled to acounterbalance mechanism as described above. The mounting member can becoupled to a first worksurface 13A (or platform, display, or any otheritem that can benefit from a height adjustment). The workstationassembly 21 can include first panel 20A and a second panel 20B having afirst worksurface 13A and a second work surface 13B mounted oppositeeach other. The panel assembly can be located on a base 40 with casters39. One or more vertical support members 11A-D can extend upwardly fromthe base 40 and first and second panels 20A, 20B can be coupled to thebase 40 and/or vertical support members 11A-D.

One or more panels can be moved to a common area to create a workspacefor two or more people. First and second panels 20A-B can be built invarious heights. While a low panel height can encourage communicationamong users, a tall panel height can be used as a privacy panel. A panelsurface 41 can be made of different materials, such as wood, metal,composite, a whiteboard, a tack holding material, a bulletin board.Workstation assembly 21, is shown having panels 20A-B each with oneworksurface 13A, 13B opposing each other. In an example, workstationassembly 21 can be configured with any number of independently heightadjustable worksurfaces. Each worksurface can be coupled to acorresponding counterbalance mechanism that can be concealed or hiddenin the panel. In an example, panel 20A can include two worksurfaces, oneon each opposing side of the panel 20A. In an example, panel 20B caninclude two worksurfaces, one on each opposing side of the panel 20B.

FIG. 7-B illustrate a perspective view of a workstation assembly 21having mounting members/platforms/worksurfaces coupled to first andsecond telescoping legs 42A, 42B, in accordance with at least oneexample of the present disclosure. In some examples, one or moretelescoping legs can support the worksurface 13 to prevent cantileverloading of the platform. In this example, a counterbalance mechanism 12can be located inside the panel 20. In an alternative example, acounterbalance mechanism can be located inside one or both of the firstand second telescoping legs 42A, 42B. Cable management features can belocated inside the panel 20 to provide a neater workspace. The panel 20can also be used as a privacy panel. In an example, the workstationassembly 21 in FIG. 7A has been raised to an upper position 34. In anexample, the workstation assembly 21 in FIG. 7B has been adjusted to alower position 35.

FIGS. 8A-8C illustrates views of a workstation assemblies 21A, 21B witha smaller panel assembly located on a riser, in accordance with at leastone example of the present disclosure. In some examples, a panel 20A,20B can be small, have a low profile and can be located on a verticalsupport member 11. In an example, the vertical support member 11 can bea riser or telescoping leg, and panels 20A, 20B can hold one or moreindependently adjustable worksurfaces 13A-D. The vertical support member11 can be at a fixed height. A base 40 of the vertical support member 11can be stationary or it can be located on casters. Counterbalancemechanisms can be located inside a panel 20A. The panel 20A can includetwo counterbalance mechanisms (lift engines) so that a panel 20A havingtwo worksurfaces 13A-B can allow independent adjustability of theworksurfaces 13A-B.

In an example shown in FIG. 8C, workstation assembly 21A can beconfigured so that a first user 43A can work side by side a second user43B. A first viewing axis 44A of users 43A, 43B can be generallyparallel to a long axis 45A of panel 20A. In an example, workstationassembly 21B can be configured so that a third user 43C can work facinga fourth user 43D. A second viewing axis 44B of users 43C and 43C can begenerally perpendicular to a long axis 45B of panel 20B. In an example,each user can choose either viewing axis position described above.

FIG. 9 illustrates perspective view of workstation assemblies 21A, 21Bwith a panel 20A, 20B that can be located on a riser, in accordance withat least one example of the present disclosure. In an example acounterbalance mechanism can be located inside a panel 20A, 20B. Thepanel 20A, 20B can be offset to one side of a user. A privacy screen46A, 46B can be located at a rear edge 47 of the worksurface 13A, 13B(13B hidden from view). The workstation assemblies 21A, 21B can includea base 40A, 40B. The base 40A, 40B can be on casters 39 and the base40A, 40B can support the panel 20A, 20B. The base 40A, 40B can beelongated away from the panel 20A, 20B which can allow the base 40B fitunder furniture 48 such as a couch or bed.

FIG. 10 illustrates a workstation assembly 21 having a plurality ofworkstations 49A-D and can include panels 20 containing a lift mechanism22 arranged around a center column 50, in accordance with at least oneexample of the present disclosure. In the present disclosure “liftmechanism” may also be referred to as a “counterbalance mechanism”. Eachworkstation 49A-D can provide an individual work area having aworksurface 13A-D that can be height adjustable.

Panels 20 can contain a lift mechanism 22 and can be arranged around acenter column 50. The center column 50 can include power outlets 51accessible by all of the workstations 49A-D. The workstations 49A-D canbe separated by privacy screens 53. Each panel 20 can include more thanone lift mechanism 22. The lift mechanism 22 can include an energystorage member such as a spring, a gas spring, an electric or hydraulicactuator. The lift mechanism 22, can be adjusted to support the weightof the worksurface 13B and items placed upon it such as a computer,books, or, display and allow a user to make height adjustments of theworksurface 13B with a minimal effort. The lift mechanism 22 can includea locking mechanism to lock or release movement of the lift mechanism22. The workstation assembly 21 can have privacy panels 52 that do notinclude lift mechanisms 22. Each lift mechanism 22 can allow theworksurface 13A-D of each workstation 49A-D to be raised or lowered fora height adjustment. In an example, the workstation assembly 21 isillustrated as having four workstations 49A-D. In an example,workstation assembly 21, can be configured to include more than four orless than four workstations.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a workstation assembly 21 having anelongated panel 54 that can include multiple lift mechanisms 22A, 22Bfor several workstations, such as workstations 49A-D, in accordance withat least one example of the present disclosure (lift mechanisms 22C and22D can face the opposite side of the workstation assembly 21). Theelongated panel 54 can include an asymmetric configuration 55 to allowattachment of multiple worksurfaces 13A-D. The workstation assembly 21can include one or more workstations 49A-D that can be attached to theelongated panel 54. The lift mechanisms 22A-D can allow each worksurface13A-D to be independently height adjustable. The workstation assembly 21can include a base 40 that can be flat to sit on a flat floor, or it canhave wheels to easily move it around a room.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a workstation assembly 21 having poweroutlets 51, cable management channels 56, and other accessories, such asa shelving tray 57 mounted on or near a panel 20, in accordance with atleast one example of the present disclosure. The workstation assembly 21can include a lower storage shelf 58 that can be connected to the cablemanagement channel 56.

FIG. 13 illustrates a workstation assembly 21 with a wheeled base 59, inaccordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example of two workstation assemblies 21A-B thatcan include panels 20A and 20B that can be connected, in accordance withat least one example of the present disclosure. The panels 20A-B of theworkstation assemblies 21A-B can be connected to provide a plurality ofheight adjustable worksurfaces 13A-F to accommodate a large number ofusers. The panels 20A-B can be physically connected together, andelectrical systems of each workstation assembly 21A-B can alsoconnected. Electrical power can be transferred from a workstationassembly 21A to another workstation assembly 21B by a power connection60. The power connection 60 can include all necessary power or networkwiring and connectors needed for any type of computer, communications,and/or electrical connection. The power connection 60 can include aswiveling action 61 having a latched position 62 and an unlatchedposition 63. Although the panels 20A and 20B are illustrated in astraight line, they can also be connected at various angles. Dimension64 can be configured to any desired length and panels 20A, 20B can belatched or attached together.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example of workstation assemblies 21A-D folded toa stowed position 65, in accordance with at least one example of thepresent disclosure. For example, as seen in FIG. 15, worksurfaces13A-13B of workstation assembly 21A are folded into a vertical position.Each worksurface 13A-B connected to a workstation assembly 21A can befolded to allow stowing them when they are not in use. The wheeled bases59A-D can be configured so that the workstation assemblies 21A-D can benested together to allow easy stowage and use when needed.

FIG. 16A illustrates a side perspective view of a workstation assembly21 with a central panel 68 and worksurfaces 13A-D that can be configuredto fold to a stowed position 65 (as in worksurface 13A) and deploy to aworking position 66 (as in worksurface 13B). The worksurfaces 13A-D canbe height adjustable with the aid of lift mechanisms 22A-D (22C-Dhidden), in accordance with at least one example of the presentdisclosure. The workstation assembly 21 can also include one or morefolding foot rests 67 attached to a base 40.

FIG. 16B illustrates an example of a workstation assembly 21 having aconcealed cable management system 69 that can be used to route cables 70from a central power hub 71 to each workstation 49, in accordance withat least one example of the present disclosure. The concealed cablemanagement system 69 can include a cable management cover 72 and variouselectrical connectors 73, power outlets 51, and/or cable routinggrooves/passages 74.

FIG. 17A illustrates an example of a workstation assembly 21 having astowed configuration 80 of a worksurfaces 13A-B and legs 77A-D (77C and77D, shown in FIG. 17B, are hidden), in accordance with at least oneexample of the present disclosure. The stowed configuration 80 can bebeneficial for storage or rearranging of the workstation assembly 21.The legs 77A-B can include a portion, such as a tang, that can overlapthe worksurface 13A at left and right sides 81A-B when stowed which canprevent unfolding of worksurface 13A before extending the legs 77A-B outfor stability. The workstation assembly 21 can include: handles 82A-Bfor moving, and an accessory channel 83 (left side, right side—hidden,and top). The accessory channel 83 can include routing channels forcables and/or mounting channels for accessories. The workstationassembly 21 can include lift mechanisms 22A-B (22B hidden) and swivelingcasters 39.

FIG. 17B illustrates an example of a workstation assembly 21 having anexpanded configuration 75 of the worksurfaces 13A-B, in accordance withat least one example of the present disclosure. The expandedconfiguration 75 can allow one or both of the worksurfaces 13A-B to flipup 76. The worksurfaces 13A-B can be raised and lowered independentlywith the lift mechanisms 22A-B (mountings members are not shown). Thelegs 77A-D can deploy to stabilize the workstation assembly 21 whenworksurfaces 13A-B are deployed to a working position. The legs can beconfigured to extend 78 before the worksurfaces 13A-B are deployed 76 toprevent loading of the worksurfaces 13A-B without the support of thelegs 77A-D. An overlapping member 79 can be located at the end of a leg(shown on 77B).

FIG. 18 illustrates an example of a workstation assembly 21 having analternative example of a leg stowing configuration 84, in accordancewith at least one example of the present disclosure. In an example, theleg stowing configuration 84 can include having legs 77A-D stow alongthe bottom 85 and rotate out horizontally 86. The leg stowingconfiguration 84 can generally conceal the foot 87. The workstationassembly 21 can include a foot-actuated lever 88 that can release andlock the legs 77A-D so that the user would never have to bend over. Forsafety, the deployment of the legs 77A-D (e.g., like an outrigger) couldhave a natural swing down/out into the “stabilizing” position and swingup/in for storage. The actuation of the legs 77A-D can engage ordisengage the ability to release the worksurface 13A into a horizontalposition.

FIGS. 19A-B illustrate examples of workstation assemblies having a liftmechanism that can be external to a panel member, in accordance with atleast one example of the present disclosure. In FIG. 19A, a workstationassembly 21A can include worksurfaces 13A-D that are height adjustableby means of an external lift mechanism 91A-B (91C-D are hidden by thisview). The external lift mechanisms 91A-B can be all or partly outsidethe surface of the panel 20.

FIG. 19B illustrates a workstation assembly 21B having four worksurfaces13A-D located around a center column 50 (13D hidden). An external liftmechanism 91B can be all or partly outside the surface of panel 20B.

FIG. 20 illustrates an example of workstation assembly having a swingingprivacy panel that can be adjusted to either forward or rearward facingpositions, in accordance with at least one example of the presentdisclosure. The workstation assembly 21 can include a panel 20 and aworksurface 13. A swinging privacy panel 92 can include a forwardposition 93 and a rearward position 94 and can be configured as alightweight assembly that can form a barrier to block sound, light,and/or sight. A hinged attachment 95 can be configured to limit themovement of the swinging privacy panel 92 to a desired arc (e.g.adjustable position settings in either the forward position 93 or therearward position 94). The hinged attachment 95 can attach the swingingprivacy panel 92 to the worksurface 13, or in another example, theswinging privacy panel 92 can be coupled to the panel 20.

FIG. 21 illustrates a workstation assembly having a height adjustableprivacy panel, in accordance with at least one example of the presentdisclosure. The workstation assembly 21 can include a height adjustableprivacy panel 96. The height adjustable privacy panel 96 can beconfigured to move upwardly and downwardly within the panel 20. Theheight adjustable privacy panel 96 can create channels 97A and 97B oneither side of the height adjustable privacy panel 96 for locatingcables, pens, or other accessories. Electrical connections 98 can beconfigured for each channel 97A-B.

FIG. 22 illustrates a top view of the workstation assembly shown in FIG.21 having independently height adjustable worksurfaces and independentlyheight adjustable privacy panels, in accordance with at least oneexample of the present disclosure. Each height adjustable privacy panel96A-B can include a privacy panel lift mechanism 99A-B. The privacypanel lift mechanism 99A-B can be separate from the lift mechanisms22A-D that can provide height adjustment for worksurfaces 13A-D

FIG. 23A illustrates a workstation assembly having a privacy panel thatcan move together with a height adjustable worksurface and can alsoinclude an independent height adjustment for the privacy panel, inaccordance with at least one example of the present disclosure. Aworkstation assembly 21 can include a dual mounting member 101 that canbe configured to support the worksurface 13 and a privacy panel 102. Thedual mounting member 101 can be coupled to a lift mechanism 22 so thatthe worksurface 13 and the privacy panel 102 can move upwardly anddownwardly together (e.g. in concert). In an example, the privacy panel102 can include an independent height adjustment mechanism 103 (see FIG.23B). The independent height adjustment mechanism 103 can becounterbalanced or manual. As shown in FIG. 23, the dual mounting member101 can encircle a column that can include the lift mechanism 22 so thatmovement of the worksurface 13 and the privacy panel 102 can be tiedtogether. The privacy panel 102 can include an independent liftmechanism 103 for fine tuning adjustments of the privacy panel 102relative to the worksurface 13.

FIG. 23B illustrates a side view of the workstation assembly of FIG. 23Ahaving a privacy panel that can move together with a height adjustableworksurface and can also include an independent height adjustment forthe privacy panel, in accordance with at least one example of thepresent disclosure. The mounting member 101 can include a collar member106 that can slide on the outside of the lift mechanism 22. The collarmember 106 can be coupled to a vertical member 105 and a horizontalmember 104 which can support the worksurface 13. The mounting member 101can be coupled to the lift mechanism 22, by one or all of the collarmember 106, the vertical member 105, or the horizontal member 104. Thecollar member can also be coupled to the privacy screen 102 directly orthrough the independent lift mechanism 103. As described above, theprivacy screen 102 and the worksurface can move together as the mountingmember 101 moves up and down. The independent lift mechanism 103 canallow adjustments of the height of the privacy screen relative to theworksurface 13.

In FIGS. 1-23 various lift mechanisms are coupled to one or both of abase or a panel. The base or panel can be described as a “supportingmember”. In an example, the supporting member can include verticalstructural members and/or horizontal structural members as well as oneor more planar members. The “panels” as described above in FIGS. caninclude planar “wall-like” panel members that can include one or morelift mechanism sandwiched between two planar members. The planar memberscan be attached to vertical and/or horizontal structural members. In anexample, the lift mechanism can be coupled to any or all of the verticalstructural members, the horizontal structural members or the planarmembers.

Various Notes & Examples

The above detailed description includes references to the accompanyingdrawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawingsshow, by way of illustration, specific examples in which the inventioncan be practiced. These examples are also referred to herein as“examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to thoseshown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplateexamples in which only those elements shown or described are provided.Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using anycombination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or oneor more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example(or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (orone or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and anydocuments so incorporated by reference, the usage in this documentcontrols.

In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patentdocuments, to include one or more than one, independent of any otherinstances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In thisdocument, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that“A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unlessotherwise indicated. In this document, the terms “including” and “inwhich” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms“comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms“including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device,article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements inaddition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemedto fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the followingclaims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merelyas labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements ontheir objects.

Geometric terms, such as “parallel”, “perpendicular”, “round”, or“square”, are not intended to require absolute mathematical precision,unless the context indicates otherwise. Instead, such geometric termsallow for variations due to manufacturing or equivalent functions. Forexample, if an element is described as “round” or “generally round,” acomponent that is not precisely circular (e.g., one that is slightlyoblong or is a many-sided polygon) is still encompassed by thisdescription.

Method examples described herein can be machine or computer-implementedat least in part. Some examples can include a computer-readable mediumor machine-readable medium encoded with instructions operable toconfigure an electronic device to perform methods as described in theabove examples. An implementation of such methods can include code, suchas microcode, assembly language code, a higher-level language code, orthe like. Such code can include computer readable instructions forperforming various methods. The code may form portions of computerprogram products. Further, in an example, the code can be tangiblystored on one or more volatile, non-transitory, or non-volatile tangiblecomputer-readable media, such as during execution or at other times.Examples of these tangible computer-readable media can include, but arenot limited to, hard disks, removable magnetic disks, removable opticaldisks (e.g., compact disks and digital video disks), magnetic cassettes,memory cards or sticks, random access memories (RAMs), read onlymemories (ROMs), and the like.

The above description is intended to be illustrative, and notrestrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or moreaspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Otherexamples can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art uponreviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the natureof the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding thatit will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of theclaims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may begrouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not beinterpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature isessential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in lessthan all features of a particular disclosed example. Thus, the followingclaims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examplesor examples, with each claim standing on its own as a separate example,and it is contemplated that such examples can be combined with eachother in various combinations or permutations. The scope of theinvention should be determined with reference to the appended claims,along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims areentitled.

In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used to include one or morethan one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one”or “one or more.” In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to anonexclusive or, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but notA,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. In this document, theterms “about” and “approximately” are used to refer to an amount that isnearly, almost, or in the vicinity of being equal to a stated amount.

What is claimed is:
 1. A free-standing workstation assembly comprising:a frame including a top and a bottom; a plurality of legs coupled with abottom portion of the frame, the plurality of legs having a stowedconfiguration and an extended configuration; and at least one heightadjustable device secured to the frame, the at least one heightadjustable device including: a worksurface; and a counterbalancemechanism configured to support the worksurface through a range oftravel between the top and the bottom of the frame, wherein theworksurface is configured to pivot between a stowed configuration and anextended configuration, the worksurface having a vertical position inthe stowed configuration and a horizontal position in the extendedconfiguration.
 2. The free-standing workstation assembly of claim 1,wherein the frame defines a plurality of recesses, wherein the pluralityof legs are stored in corresponding recesses when in their stowedconfiguration.
 3. The free-standing workstation assembly of claim 2,wherein the plurality of legs rotate downward from their stowed positionto their extended configuration.
 4. The free-standing workstationassembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of legs extend along thebottom of the frame when in their stowed configuration, and wherein theplurality of legs rotate horizontally from their stowed position totheir extended configuration.
 5. The free-standing workstation assemblyof claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of legs includes aportion to overlap a side of the worksurface when the worksurface is inthe stowed configuration to prevent moving the worksurface into itsextended configuration before moving the plurality of legs into theirextended configuration.
 6. The free-standing workstation assembly ofclaim 1, comprising: a foot-actuated lever coupled with the frame, thefoot-actuated lever configured to release the plurality of legs fromtheir stowed position and lock the plurality of legs in their expandedconfiguration.
 7. The free-standing workstation assembly of claim 1,comprising: at least one handle to assist in moving the free-standingworkstation assembly.
 8. The free-standing workstation assembly of claim1, wherein the frame defines at least one channel.
 9. The free-standingworkstation assembly of claim 8, wherein the at least one channel issized and arranged to store cables.
 10. The free-standing workstationassembly of claim 8, wherein the at least one channel is sized andarranged to mount accessories.
 11. The free-standing workstationassembly of claim 8, comprising: a plurality of wheels coupled with thebottom of the frame.
 12. The free-standing workstation assembly of claim11, wherein the plurality of legs includes a first set of legs coupledwith a first side of the frame and a second set of legs coupled with asecond side of the frame, wherein the first set of legs is configured torotate in a first direction from the stowed configuration to theextended configuration and the second set of legs is configured torotate in a second direction from the stowed configuration to theextended configuration, and wherein the second direction is opposite thefirst direction.
 13. The free-standing workstation assembly of claim 12,wherein the first direction is clockwise and the second direction iscounter-clockwise.
 14. The free-standing workstation assembly of claim12, wherein, from their extended configuration, the first and secondsets of legs rotate horizontally inward toward a center of the frame andinto their stowed position.